Does idolatry influence us today?

Regarding idolatry, below is a quote from Hayford’s Bible Handbook (page 651, 652):

"IDOL, IDOLATRY, IMAGE—a representation or symbol of an object of worship; a false god. In a few places in the Bible, the word image appears in neutral sense, not referring to a man-made object of worship….

"Most of the time, however, image refers to a statue or something of human manufacture which people have substituted and submitted themselves to instead of the true and living God. Occasionally it appears in the same sentence with idol (Lev. 26:1; 2 Chr. 33:7). As surely as the idols were made of inert, material objects, they became suffused or surrounded by demonic presences when worshiped.

"…Perhaps the best definition of an idol is some thing, person, or structure that a person submits themselves to as a god—a ruling, dominant force or value in their life. It may not be a statue or a tree as in ancient times; it can be a system, a preference, or a pursuit that opposes God’s rule and will in your life.

"Idolatry can take many forms….

"In the New Testament period the term idolatry began to be used as a spiritual concept. Idolatry became not the actual bowing down before a statue but the replacement of God in the heart or mind of the worshiper: ‘Put to death…covetousness, which is idolatry.’ (See Col. 3:5; Eph. 5:5). Today believers must understand the vicious nature of idolatry and the potential bondage inherent in submission to the spirit of the world. Besides material objects such as houses, land, and cars, idols can be people, popular heroes, or those whom we love. Objects of worship can even include things like fame, reputation, hobbies, pride and deeds done in the name of the Lord. Further, fetishes and paraphernalia related to worldly or occult practice, as well as surrender to abusive or obscene practices—promiscuity, drugs, alcohol, pornography, demonically inspired music—all give place to the devil (Eph. 4:26) and are idolatry.

"Brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which He consecrated for us..." Hebrews 10:19-20

Jack Hayford Ministries 14800 Sherman Way, Van Nuys, CA 91405-2233
(800) 776-8180 * FAX: (818) 779-8411

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Last updated on: 7/09/03